Do you know if your loved ones are vaccinated? Now is the time to ensure everyone is updated on their vaccines. 

If you’ve been watching the news, you are probably aware that a measles outbreak in Texas has spread to New Mexico. There are now new reported cases in Kentucky and New Jersey. One child in Texas has passed away due to the measles. There are two essential things you should know about Measles.  

First, it’s one of the most contagious diseases humans can catch.  

It only takes one infected person to pass it on to up to nine out of 10 susceptible people in close contact. It spreads through droplets from coughing, sneezing, and talking. According to the CDC, the Measles virus can remain infectious in the air for up to 2 hours after an infected person leaves an area. 

Measles can cause inner ear infections, pneumonia, croup, diarrhea, and hospitalization. In more serious cases, it can cause permanent brain damage and even death from respiratory or neurologic complications. Those at higher risk for complications from measles are infants and children under 5 years, people over 20 years old, pregnant individuals, and people with compromised immune systems.  

Second, it’s easily preventable. 

A vaccine has been used since it was found to be 100 percent effective in the early 1960s. The rates of measles were drastically reduced when childhood vaccination became more widespread. When 95 percent of the community is vaccinated against measles, it creates herd immunity and prevents outbreaks like the ones we are seeing now. Herd immunity is critical to protect those who cannot receive the vaccine.   

Twenty-five years ago, the United States declared measles eliminated. However, vaccination rates have slowed in recent years due to misinformation, resulting in new infection rates.  

Vaccination is key. 

To prevent a measles infection, the best thing you can do is make sure you and your loved ones are vaccinated against measles. It is recommended that people receive two measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccines—one between 12 and 15 months and a second between 4 and 6 years old. The two doses of the measles vaccine have a 97% effectiveness rate. Make sure you and your loved ones are vaccinated. Check your vaccination status and contact your care team if you have questions. If you suspect you have measles, stay home to prevent the spread of the virus to others. If you have travel plans, ensure you and your loved ones are fully vaccinated two weeks in advance. You can also check the CDC’s global travel notices for outbreaks. 

Talk to your care team today to make sure you’re vaccinated!